FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield First Selectwoman Kupchick is excited to announce the installation of an ADA-compliant outdoor fitness center adjacent to the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities. The Center is being constructed with funds from the American Rescue Plan Act for the CT Department of Aging and Disability Services State Unit.
This project will help aging residents who, due to the Covid epidemic and concerns about disease transmission, are reluctant to participate in indoor activities. The facility will include a variety of accessible strength, agility and conditioning equipment and will serve residents with disabilities and/or physical limitations. This project will strengthen efforts to re-engage aging residents who have not been participating in activities post-Covid and attract new members.
First Selectwoman Kupchick said, “The outdoor fitness park at Gould Manor Park has been a welcome addition for residents who enjoy exercising outside. I think this is a home run for our town’s seniors with varying abilities to be able to exercise outdoors. I want to thank Human & Social Services Director Julie DeMarco, Director of the Bigelow Center for Senior Services; Brenda Steele; and Parks & Recreation Director Anthony Calabrese, who worked together to bring this project to fruition.”
The desired outcome is to bring aging residents back in touch with services available at the center and avoid the negative consequences of social isolation, loneliness and unaddressed needs. The project adds to the center’s range of programs designed to meet the needs of residents of various ages, interests and concerns. Once connected to the center, participants can learn about other recreational and supportive activities. In short, by offering an open-air fitness option, the subgroup of residents whose concerns about infection were heightened by Covid may be encouraged to return or get involved for the first time.
Director of the Bigelow Center for Senior Services Brenda Steele remarked, “We are thrilled to give aging adults in our community an outdoor playground with designated fitness equipment allowing them to engage in physical exercise including strengthening their muscles, balance and much more. The playground is also an opportunity to socialize and enjoy fun activities while being outdoors.”
Human & Social Services Director Julie DeMarco added, “Playgrounds aren’t just for kids any more. We know the benefits of exercise and being strong, healthy and fit as you age, and we know exercise helps your longevity and emotional well-being. The new outdoor fitness park at the Bigelow Center will provide our residents with another outdoor space to socialize and exercise.”
Equipment includes items such as a custom balance station, swing, cross trainer, leg press, chest press and arm & leg bikes.